1. Small
Headstone
HERE LYETH YE BODY
OF
ELIZABETH WIFE OF [SAMUEL]
ATHAWES [OF BOXLEY AND]
ELDEST DAUGHTER OF EDWARD
BALDOCK OF THIS PARISH
DEPARTED THIS LIFE [SEPT.] YE 18th ?
1700 IN YE [ ] [YEAR OF] HER AGE
LEFT ISSUE [ ]
2. Headstone, Very Eroded, Inscription
Reconstructed from Smetham's Rambles
Round Churches, (1928)
[EPICEDIUM on a Blacksmith]
[My Sledge and Hammer lyes Declined,]
[My Bellows too have lost their Wind,]
[My Fire's Extinct, my Forge Decaid,]
[And in the Dust my Vice is Laid,]
[My Coal is Spent, my Iron's Gone,]
[My Nails are Drove, my Work is Done]
RICHARD AUSTIN
DIED THE 7th AUGST. 174[5]
AGED 50 YEARS
ALSO TWO SONS & TWO DAUGHTERS
VIZ. WILL., MARGARET [ ]
[ ]
3. Grey Stone Chest Tomb
TOMB OF EDWARD BALDOCK, DIED 1723, AND ANN BALDOCK
IN THE BACKGROUND, LEFT, IS THE HEADSTONE
OF THEIR DOBSON RELATIONS, AND RIGHT, THE
SMALLER HEADSTONE OF THEIR DAUGHTER ELIZABETH ATHAWES
South Side
[HERE'S INTERRED THE BODY OF EDWARD BALDOCK]
OF THIS [PARIS]H [WHO] DEPARTED [THIS LIFE]
DECEMBER 20th 1723 AGED [ ]
LEFT ISSUE ONE SON & 4 DAUGHTERS
EDWARD, MARGARET, MARY, JANE & ANNE
North Side
HERE'S IN[TERRED] THE BODY OF ANN [WIFE]
OF Mr E[DWARD] BALDOCK WHO D[EPARTED]
THIS LIFE [ ] O[CTOBER] ANNO DOM[ ]
AGED 42 ? YEARS
Edward Baldock, died 1723, was a Yeoman. His
P.C.C. Will (Prerogative Court of Canterbury) is dated 28th February 1717
(1718)
To his son Thomas, his house, storehouses and 2 acres of land
where Thomas now lives, for life. After Thomas dies, to Samuel Athawes,
Yeoman of Boxley, in trust, for grandson, William Baldock, eldest son of
Thomas. If William has no lawful heirs, then to Thomas's next eldest son,
Edward. If Edward has no lawful heirs, then to next son, Thomas. If Thomas
has no lawful heirs, then to Edward and Samuel, sons of Samuel Athawes
(grandsons) for ever.
To son Edward Baldock, all his property and land in Maidstone
for life. After Edward's death, to his male heirs, in default of such, to
his female heirs; in default, to all his grandsons, sons of son Thomas,
then living, for ever.
To son in law Thomas Dobson half of his house and mill, with
lands in Aylesford occupied by Henry Beaumont, for his life. After
Dobson's death, to his daughter, Mary Dobson, for life. After her death,
to all their children, then living and to their heirs. If no heirs, then
to son Edward Baldock and his male heirs, if no heirs, then to sons of son
Thomas, for ever.
Son in law Thomas Dobson shall pay executors £100 or
discount the sum from money testator owes him on bond. To daughter,
Margaret Baldock, and her heirs for ever, the other half of the house,
mill and lands in Aylesford. Margaret also gets £50.
To son Edward all his property in Throwley and Ospring(e),
after death of his mother, for life. After Edward's death, to his male
heirs, in default, to his grandsons, Edward and Samuel Athawes, Edward and
John Dobson, for ever.
To son Edward all his property in Tudely and Tunbridge, in
trust, to sell. Money to children of son Thomas, daughters Mary Dobson ,
Anne Taylor and Jane Courly ?, and of son in law Samuel Athawes by his
deceased daughter, Elizabeth.
To son Thomas his lighter or vessel he now works in. To
daughter, Anne wife of Augustine Taylor, £50.
His wife to have use of household goods in his dwelling house; after her
death, to be shared among grand children, as wife thinks fit. Residue to
son Edward, who is his executor. At his executor's discretion, £3 per
annum to son Thomas to keep lighter in repair, as long as he keeps lighter
in his "own proper working".
Witnesses: Mary Easton, Susan Maynard and D. Fuller
Proved 13th June 1724
4. Chest Tomb, Very Eroded, Brick Base
South. Side
[HERE LIETH THE BODY OF] M[ARY ?][DAUGHTER OF ?]
[EDW]ARD BALDOCK AND M[ARY ?]
[ ] AND ELIZABETH [ ]
[ ]
BALDOCK see ATHAWES
BALDOCK see GRINDY
5. Headstone, Under Yew
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
THOMAS BEST
(LATE OF LONDON)
WHO DIED JANUARY THE 8th 1823
AGED 51 YEARS
LEFT ISSUE 1 SON AND 1 DAUGHTER
VIZ. HENRY AND ELIZA
"Afflictions Sore, Long Time I Bore,
Physicians were in Vain,
Till God did Please [ to give me Ease]
[And Free me from my Pain]"
6. Large Red Granite Coped, Iron Railings, Over Vault
South Side
EDWARD LADD BETTS
LATE OF PRESTON HALL
BORN JUNE 5th 1815 DIED JANUART 21st 1872
AND ANN HIS WIFE
BORN SEPTEMBER 19th 1820 DIED JANUARY 23rd 1908
West Side
PERCY CAMPBELL BETTS
JANUARY 7th 1856 – OCTOBER 14th 1878
East Side
ELIZABETH PETO BETTS
BORN OCTOBER 22nd 1846 DIED MARCH 1st 1940
Edward Ladd Betts, died 1872, was one of the
Principal Constructors of the Victorian Railway Network, in partnership
with Peto.
He pulled down the old Preston Hall and built the
present building, it's stone described in the Penguin Buildings of
England as "repellent"! The old building, remodelled in the
Georgian period, was certainly more elegant and tasteful. The church clock
came from the old Hall and was given by Betts. His business failed and he
left Preston Hall. The tomb was paid for by parishioners who remembered
his past generosity to the parish.
7. Small Headstone, (Between Stevens' Headstones)
IN MEMORY OF
THOMAS BISHOP
WHO DIED [FEB.] 17th 18[22]
AGED [55] YEARS
[ Eroded Verses ]
ALSO EDWARD SON OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED [FEB.] [ ] 1807
AGED [ ] YEARS AND [ ] MONTHS
ALSO JOHN WHO DIED FEB. 2nd ?
18[0]7 AGED [ ] MONTHS
Thomas Bishop, died 1822, was a Butcher of East
Malling, and nephew of Edward Stevens, also a Butcher, (Edward Stevens
P.C.C. Will). He is buried between the two Stevens graves. Although Edward
Stevens wife, Letitia, is on the later Stevens headstone, there is no
surviving monument to her husband, who was buried at Aylesford in 1826.
8. Headstone, Very Eroded
[
]
SOL. BRICE
[WHO] DIED [YE]
[2]8th [OF JANUARY]
174[4]
[AGED [ ] YEARS]
9. Headstone, Very Eroded
[HERE LIETH]
[YE BODY OF]
[HENRY BRISSENDEN]?
[OF THIS PAR]ISH
[WHO DEPARTED THIS L]IFE
[NOVEMBER 1738]
[ ]
LEFT ISSUE 2 SONS & 1 DA]UGT.
HENRY, DENNIS & THOMAS
[DENNIS] DAUGHTER
[OF] HENRY BRISSENDEN
----------Ground Level----------
WHO DIED MARCH 29th 17[52]
AGED 14 YEARS
10. Headstone and Body Stone on Stone Slab
IN MEMORY
OF
MARY WIFE OF GEORGE CUTBATH
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE MARCH 30th 1830
AGED 58 YEARS
ALSO THE ABOVE GEORGE CUTBATH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE MARCH 17th 1842
AGED 74 YEARS
George Cutbath, died 1842, was a School Teacher,
although he states "Gentleman" in his will. The P.C.C. Will is
dated 6th October 1841
William Larkin of Brixton, Linen Draper and Robert Spratt of
Aylesford, Miller, are executors and trustees; they are to have £20 each
for their trouble.
To Mary Pike of Brompton, Widow,£300 for life; after her
death, divided among her 3 children. To Mrs Ann Edwards of Dartford,
£100, to her daughter, Mary Ann Edwards, £100. To Ann Farmer of
Aylesford, if still in his service, £150.
Household furniture, plate, etc. to his executors, which they
can sell. Remainder of his money divided between his nephews and nieces,
viz. William George Cutbath, Mary Cutbath, Louisa Kemp, widow, Henry
Randall and Caroline Finch.
Witnesses: Ralph Dennis, Robert Spratt and Stephen Spratt
Proved 6th July 1842
11. Headstone, In Angle of Porch
IN MEMORY OF
CHARLES DOBSON WHO DEPARTED
THIS LIFE SEPTEMBER 27th 1781
AGED 55 ? YEARS
LEFT ISSUE [ ]
VIZ. CHARLES AND [ ]
[Eroded Verses]
ALSO SUSAN DOBSON
WHO DIED APRIL THE 14th 1796
AGED 67 ? YEARS
DUKE see FAUNCE
12. Stone Plaque set in South Wall East of Porch
THE
YEW TREE
WAS
PLANTED IN
THE YEAR OF
OUR LORD
1708
BY
W. FARNCOM
13. Ledger on Ground East of Chancel, Removed from Interior in 1878
(FAUNCE CREST)
RESURGEMIIS
GEOGIUS FAUNCE
ROBERTI FAUNCE EQUIUS
ET ELIZABETHA
TEN[ ]E EJUS UXORIS
GEORGII DUKE DE COSYTON ARMIGERII
FILIUS NATU MAXIMUS
SEPULTUS JAN. 26th A.D. 1788
AETAT 97
14. Small Headstone, Extremely Eroded
IN
MEMORY OF THOMAS
FENSHAM ? [OF THIS PARISH ?]
[WHO DIED MAY [ ] 1766]
AGED 71 ? YEARS
[Rest Illegible]
15. Small Headstone, Eroded
[HERE LIETH]
[THE BODY OF]
JANE FILMER WHO
DEPARTED THIS LIFE
THE 27th [OF] [JUNE] 1717
AGED 29 YEARS
16. Curious Ledger Supported on Six Legs, Like a Table
RARE TABLE TOMB OF EDWARD GOODMAN, DIED 1738
BEYOND IT, THE THREE LAKE MONUMENTS
EDWARD GOODMAN DIED FEBRUARY [
]
1738 AGED 88 YEARS HE HAD TWO WIFES
BY THE FIRST BURIED NOV. YE 1st 1681 HE HAD
ANN & HAMLET BY THE SECOND BURIED
MARCH YE 1st 1724 HE HAD ONE DAUGHTER
VIZ. CATHERINE WHO SURVIVED HIM
HERE ALSO LIETH THE BODY OF
CATHERINE DAUGHTER OF EDWARD
GOODMAN WHO DIED OCTOB. YE 10th
1742 AGED 58 ? YEARS
SHE HAD BY HER FIRST HUSBAND
JOHN LAKE ONE DAUGHTER AND TWO
SONS VIZ. CATHERINE, WILLIAM & JOHN
BY HER SECOND HUSBAND THO. WARD
ONE SON VIZ. EDWARD
JOHN LAKE ONLY SURVIVED HER
(The two wives of Edward Goodman, were both Catherine)
Edward Goodman, died 1738, Butcher. His P.C.C.
Will is dated 14th July 1738
He is "aged and infirm" (88) He and his late wife
did, about the 18th of April 1715, settle several pieces of land in Wye,
he now ratifies this settlement. In case the relative documents are lost,
he gives this land to daughter Catherine, wife of Thomas Ward, for life.
After her death to her son John Lake, son by her first husband, John Lake,
for ever.
Catherine to have the rents and profits, exclusive of
her husband, for life.
To grandson John Lake, £140. His house, with stable and
slaughter house in Aylesford, to grandson William Stevens, for ever. His
other house in Aylesford, near the latter, late occupied by William
Stevens, to grandson Nicholas Goodman, son of late son Hamlet, for ever.
To grand daughter Catherine Pickett? £40. To grandson
William Stevens £50, also to William, al his "milch beasts" and
husbandry tackle (except stock beasts and cattle bought as part of his
business); he to have them "on demand", and he is forgiven all
debts for board. He is to pay debts and money he has received from
Goodman's customers and "chapmen", to the executors. He must
claim within 21 days all wages owed and to give executors accounts of all
payments received or money owed. If William Stevens refuses of neglects to
do this , his bequests are void and go into residue.
To grandson Edward Stevens £100, to grandson Nicholas
Goodman £50. To Thomas Ward and Catherine his wife £10 each, in trust,
to put out Moses and Edward sons of Mary Fan? His deceased sister,
Margaret's daughter, by William Godden, her husband,to apprenticeships of
such trade as Moses and Edward choose.
To Mary Sharpe daughter of his late wife's brother, James Sharpe, formerly
of Meopham, £5. To good friends Edward Baldock of Maidstone, Yeoman and
James Taylor of Burham, Yeoman, £100, and all his ready money,
securities, debts, stock, all household goods and all real and personal
estate, in trust, to sell. Proceeds and the £100 invested as they think
best. Interest to John, Catherine and Edward Startup, children of grand
daughter Catherine wife of George Startup, Butcher, for their maintenance
and education until they are 21.
When they are 21 executors to pay money and accrued interest
to them in equal shares.. If they all die before 21 with no lawful heirs,
then money to grandson John Lake. Trust terms follow.
Thomas and Catherine Ward executors.
Witnesses: E. Pleydell , Robert Pleydell and William Gates.
Proved 9th April 1739
On 29th April 1823 we learn that the will was not administered by Thomas
and Catherine Ward, and that Catherine Ward died intestate*.
Administration was granted to William Scuddamore, Solicitor of Maidstone,
on behalf of John Springate, William Coleman and James Pullen. They have
an half interest in a small house in Aylesford for remainder of term of
100 year lease, assigned to Edward Goodman, commencing 25th October 1733.
(* Catherine Ward did not die intestate, see Will below)
Catherine Ward, died 1742, Widow. Rochester Will
dated 30th September 1742
She is in "a bad state of health". To kinsman William Stevens
son of Edward Stevens, late of Hoo, £30 at 21 years.
To John Startup, son of her late daughter, Catherine and her
husband George Startup, £50 at 21 years.
To Catherine Startup, daughter of George and Catherine
Startup, £100 at 21 years; this to be invested by executor and the
interest used towards her maintenance, until she is 21.
To Edward Startup, another son of George and Catherine, £50
at 21 years. If any die before 21, their legacy shared by survivors, if
all die, money to executor, for ever.
Residue of personal estate to children of her son John Lake
and Jane, his wife, viz. Elizabeth, John, Catherine and Thomas. All real
estate to son John Lake, who is sole executor.
Witnesses: Augustine Taylor, Richard Austin and Sarah Carter.
Proved 20th December 1742
17. Grey Stone Chest Tomb
WILLIAM GRINDY, DIED 1691
ON OPPOSITE SIDE, HIS DAUGHTER, JANE BALDOCK, DIED 1729
South Side
[HERE LIETH YE]BODY OF WILL. GRINDY
[WHO DEPARTED YS LIFE [AUGUST] [ ] 1691 AG: 4[
]
[ ] FEB. 20th 17[ ]6 AG: 70 SHE
[ [W]IFE OF Mr EDWD. BALDOCK
North Side
H[ERE LIE]TH YE BODY OF JANE BALDOCK
[WIFE OF] Mr EDWARD BALDOCK WHO DEPARTED
[THIS LIFE] NOVEMBER THE 15th 1729 [AGED] 41 YEARS
[LEFT ISSUE] 6 DAUGHTERS MARY, [ ], ANNA ?
[ ]
William Grindy, died 1691,a Mercer. His
Rochester Court Will is dated 9th August 1689
He is "sick and weak". To wife Mary, £5 per annum
for life from his property and land in Leybourne which he lately purchased
from Stephen Dennis. If the annuity is not paid his wife can distrain the
property until it is.
To son Henry , his property in Strood, which he purchased
from John Snooks, for ever. Also to Henry his leasehold, also in Strood,
occupied by Stephen Hulkes, and £40 at 24 years of age.
Rents and profits to be used by executor for Henry's
maintenance and education until he is 24.
To daughter Mary, £10 at 22 years of age or earlier if
executor thinks fit. To daughter Jane* property in Leybourne charged with
the annuity of £5 per annum. If Jane dies without lawful heirs, then to
son Henry and daughter Mary. Also to Jane £20 at 22 years.
Residue to wife Mary, who is sole executor.
His very good friend, Francis Tomlin the Younger of East
Malling, Yeoman and Mr George Lattenden, overseers of the will, to each of
them 50s for their trouble.
Witnesses: John Ladson, mark of John Emberton and Roger
Tomlin
Proved 8th September 1691
*Later the wife of Edward Baldock
HYSOM see OMER
18. Headstone, Under Yew
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
THOMAS JOHNES
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED DEC. 25th 1835 AGED 54 YEARS
"Time Swept by his O'er Whelming Tide,
My Faithful Partner from my Side,
And You of Yours Departed my be,
As Mine ? Especially [ ] me,
[ ] then you [ ],
Death's Come [ ]"
19. Grey Stone Chest Tomb
JOHN LAKE, DIED 1710
HERE LYETH YE BODY OF J[OHN] YE BELOVED
HUSBAND OF [ CATHERINE ? ]A: LAKE HE DYED
[ JULY YE [ ] 1710 IN THE 43rd YEAR OF HIS AGE
[LEFT ISSUE] 3 CHILDREN [ ]
KATHERINE, WILL. & [JOHN]
John Lake, died 1770, a Butcher. His Rochester Court Will dated 3rd
March 1768
His house and 2 acres in Stockbury in the occupation of John
Kirby, and several pieces of land of 23 acres in Wye, occupied by Andrew
Clifford, to "trusty" friends, Daniel Ward of Mill Hall,
Aylesford, Thomas Charlton of Loose and
John Taylor of Burham, Yeoman, upon trust, to sell above
properties and share proceeds among sons, John, Thomas, William, Daniel,
Samuel and Edward and daughter, Catherine, wife of Edward Charlton. Ready
money, securities, plate, linen, cattle, corn, effects and personal estate
to trustees, upon trust, to share among his children. Before they
distribute above they are to deduct £100 from Catherine's share, on
account on money already advanced to her upon her marriage. The £100 to
be shared equally among his 6 sons. Sons Thomas and John and daughter
Catherine to give sufficient release to executors, of claims against
personal estate of their grand mother Catherine Ward, which came to him
after her decease. If any of them neglects or refuses to do so, executors
to keep their shares and give them to those who comply. He has become
bound with his son John, to the Parish Officers of Aylesford, for the
maintenance of "a female bastard child by him begotten on the body of
Mary Wallis, which was born chargeable to the said parish of
Aylesford". He directs son John to get a release from the parish of
any claim on his estate on account of the bond. If John does not, sums to
be retained from his inheritance equivalent to demands on account of the
bond.
Trustees and executors to invest share of children under 21
in Public Funds and use interest and part of capital as they think needed
for maintenance and education of those minors until they are 21, when they
will transfer their shares to them.
Daniel Ward, Thomas Charlton and John Taylor to be guardians
of his children who are minors. They are also his executors.
Witnesses: Richard Gammon, William St. Coast and Thomas
Willard
Proved 11th December 1770
20. Portland Stone Chest Tomb, East of Chancel
North Side
IN MEMORY OF
JANE WIFE OF JOHN LAKE
OF THIS PARISH WHO DIED
DECEMBER THE 1st ? 1758
AGED [ ] YEARS
East Side
IN
MEMORY OF
WILLM. LAKE
THE SON OF
JOHN LAKE
WHO DIED OCT.
THE 10th 1781
AGED 39 YEARS
South Side
IN MEMORY OF
JOHN LAKE OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED OCTOBER [ ] 1770 AGED [ ] YEARS
[ ]
[ ]
William Lake, died 1781, Tailor. Rochester Will
dated 29th September 1781.
He is "sick and weak". All his share of parcel of
land in Wye in the occupation of Andrew Clifford, and all his share of
house in Aylesford in the occupation of Edward Startup and Daniel Lake, to
his brothers, Daniel and Samuel Lake, in equal shares.
Lease of house he holds of Mr Augustine Taylor, to brothers,
Daniel and Samuel in equal shares.
To Catherine Lake daughter of his brother John, £20 at 21
years, she also gets all his china and plate at 21. If she dies before 21,
the money, china and plate to his brothers, Daniel and Samuel.
Forgives brother John all the debts he owes him. To brother
Daniel all household goods.
To Edward Startup £5, to sister Catherine wife of Edward
Charlton, £10, to brother Thomas, £10 and to brother Edward, £10.
Residue to brothers Daniel and Samuel, equally. They and
friend John Spong of Mill Hall are executors.
Witnesses: Hester Tunbridge, William Turner and Edward
Middleton.
Proved 11th October 1781 (Power reserved to John Spong)
Value (excluding real estate), not more than £100
21. Headstone
[SACRED]
[TO THE MEMORY OF]
THOMAS LAKE
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
MARCH 2nd 1824
AGED 44 YEARS
ALSO SARAH WIFE OF
THE ABOVE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
[JANUARY] THE 10th 1852
AGED 82 YEARS
Thomas Lake, died 1824, Farmer. P.C.C. Will
dated 18th August 1823
Everything to wife Sarah, who is executor.
Witnesses: James Westbrook and Thomas Fordham
Proved 4th May 1824
Sarah Lake, died 1852, Widow of Thomas. P.C.C. Will dated 3rd
January 1851
To Mary Ann Hickmoth, 2 silver table spoons. To Sarah Goff, 6
silver tea spoons. To Sarah Yeomans, Sarah Ashdown and Richard Bishop, all
wearing apparel, shared equally.
To her executor £5 for his trouble.
Residue to be sold and proceeds and money in the Maidstone
Savings Bank, (£36 9s 0d) shared equally, after funeral costs, between,
Sarah Yeomans, Sarah Ashdown, Richard Bishop and William Kemsley.
John Wagon is executor.
Signs with a mark.
Witnesses: Joseph Bateman of Aylesford and Sarah Samson of
Aylesford
Affidavit dated 5th March 1852
John Samson, Gentleman of Aylesford, Joseph Bateman, Grocer
of Aylesford and Sarah Samson, wife of John, are sworn. John Samson states
that he wrote the will, leaving a space for Sarah Lake's mark. The will
was written prior to Sarah making her mark. Sarah Samson and Joseph
Bateman swear that they were together in the presence of Sarah Lake when
she signed the will. Proved 10th March 1852
LAKE see GOODMAN
22. Headstone
MARGERY MATHESON
WHO DIED DECEMBER 25th 1787
AGED 68 YEARS
23. Headstone
TO THE MEMORY
OF
THOMAS MEPPHAM
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED JANUARY 17th 1860
AGED 83 YEARS
"Lord, he was Thine and not my Own,
Thou must not do [ ] me Wrong,
I Thank Thee for the Precious Loan,
Accorded me so Long"
Thomas Meppham, died 1860, was a Dairyman of
Aylesford (1851 Census)
24. Eroded Ledger, Ground Level, Once in Interior ?
MARY MORTLOCK
DIED 26th APRIL 1[8]17
AGED 79
25. Headstone
IN
MEMORY OF MARY WIFE
OF THO. OMER WHO DIED
THE 2nd ? OF DECEMBER 1769
AGED 72 YEARS
ALSO GILES HYSOM SON
IN LAW TO THE ABOVE DIED
[ ] [OF] JANUARY 1776 AGED 44 YEARS
26. Headstone and Body Stone, Against Buttress
DETAIL OF HEADSTONE OF RICHARD ORUM, DIED 1803
IN MEMORY OF
Mr RICHARD ORUM
OF THE PARISH OF BOXLEY, YEOMAN
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE OCTOBER THE
[ ] 1803 AGED 70 YEARS
[ALSO] ELIZABETH HIS WIFE
[DAUGHTER OF WILLIAM STEVENS]?
[ ] WHO DIED AUGUST THE 29th
1811 AGED 81 YEARS
ALSO IN MEMORY OF ELIZABETH DAUGHTER
OF RICHD. AND ELIZTH. ORUM DIED THE
[ ] OF MARCH 176[8] IN THE 4th YEAR OF HER
AGE
Richard Orum, died 1803, was a Yeoman of Boxley.
His P.C.C. Will is dated 21st November 1791
To daughter Catherine Orum £200 at 21 or day of marriage. If
she dies before 21, then £200 goes to personal estate.
All his freeholds to wife Elizabeth, for ever, as long as she
remains his widow, if she remarries, then to his their 2 daughters,
Catherine and Bessy Luck wife of George, Yeoman of Burrow Green, Wrotham,
for ever. Residue to wife; when she dies or remarries, lease of property
he now resides in, leased from Worshipful Company of Vintners, for 21
years, to daughter Catherine, and residue to daughters.
Inventory to be made and delivered to "most respected
friend" Richard Holloway of Maidstone, Gentleman.
His wife and Richard Holloway are executors.
Witnesses: Samuel Billingsley, William Sanders and Stephen
Lamprey.
27. Headstone, Under Yew
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
ROBERT PARRAMORE
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED NOVEMBER 17th 1797
AGED 72 YEARS
ALSO ANN WIFE OF THE ABOVE
ROBERT PARRAMORE
WHO DIED JULY 24th 1824
AGED 77 YEARS
ALSO JOHN THEIR SON WHO DIED
JANUARY 13th 1780 AGED 11 YEARS
ALSO NICHOLAS THEIR SON WHO DIED
JANUARY [ ] 1820 AGED 45 YEARS
LIKEWISE THOMAS THEIR SON
BURIED AT WEST FARLEIGH
28. Headstone
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
REVD. GEORGE LOCKYER
PERRY
WHO DIED IN THE VICARAGE HOUSE
OF THIS PARISH
AGED 73 YEARS
AND WAS BURIED HERE
ON THE 15th OF APRIL 1843
PIKE see WRAY
29. Headstone and Body Stone
THOMAS ROBINSON, DIED 1765
STEWARD TO THE EARL OF AYLESFORD AT PRESTON HALL
HERE LIETH THE BODY OF
THOS. ROBINSON
WHO DIED MARCH 12th ? 1765 IN THE
74th YEAR OF HIS AGE
Thomas Robinson, died 1765, was Steward of
Preston Hall. P.C.C. Will dated 8th June 1741
To wife Ruth 6s per week, every Monday for life. To daughter
Bridgett, wife of Rene Brebam, £150. To grand daughter
Antoinett Brebam £150. The total of these sums to be kept by
executor until grand daughter is 21 or married. Interest on the £300 to
be paid to Bridgett, at £4 per annum and £8 per annum to Antoinett until
she is 16, then interest is divided equally. If one dies then the survivor
to have all the £300. As long as Rene is living Bridgett is to have the
interest only, not the principal.
The £8 to Antoinett is to be paid to her landlady for her
board, clothes and learning, as executor thinks fit. The landlady is to
account to executor for the money paid.
To Thomas Brissenden, his godson, youngest son of widow
Brissenden £10 at 21, with interest accrued. Mr. John Ward of Milal
(sic), in Aylesford, Hoyman is his Trustee. For his troubles £20, paid by
his executor, William Baylis. Residue, money, goods, etc. to his executor.
Witnesses: Sarah Thomas and Thomas Bottle
Codicil dated 28th July 1758
£50 to be deducted from grand daughter's legacy, and be paid
to Mr Parry, his son in law by his executor, Baylis. His grand daughter is
now wife of William Pett.
Signed with a mark.
Witnesses: Sarah Thomas and Sarah Smith
30. Very Eroded Headstone, Under Yew
[HERE LIETH]
[THE BODY OF]
[SUSANNAH]
W[IFE] [OF]
EDW[ARD] [RUSSELL] SHE
DIED [OCTOBER] [ ]
1746 [AGED]
44 [YEARS]
31. Headstone, Close to Above
IN
MEMORY OF
EDWD. RUSSELL OF THE PARISH
OF BOXLEY WHO DEPARTED THIS
LIFE JULY THE 3rd 1767
AGED 66 ? YEARS
32. Classical Limestone Chest Tomb, Near to Above Headstones
Ledger
Extremely Eroded, No Details
North Side
IN MEMORY OF
JOHN RUSSELL LATE OF MAIDSTONE
WHO DIED OCTOBER 6th 1790 AGED 56 YEARS
LEFT ISSUE 6 ? SONS AND 5 ? DAUGHTERS
VIZ. EDWARD, JONATHAN, [ ]
THOMAS, JOSEPH, SARAH, HARRIETT
REBECCA, SUSANNA AND ELIZA
South Side
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
EDWARD RUSSELL OF MAIDSTONE
WHO DIED FEB. 1st 1840 AGED 68
East Side
SUSANNA
DAUGHTER
OF
JOHN AND
SUSANNA ?
RUSSELL
DIED IN HER
INFANCY
John Russell, died 1790, was a Hop Merchant of
Maidstone. (Burial Register)
------------------------------------------------------
John Russell, died 1909, was a Foreman of Roads (1901 Census)
33. Headstone
SACRED TO THE MEMORY
OF
SARAH SAMPSON
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE
THE 26th DAY OF NOVEMBER 1871
AGED 78 YEARS
ALSO JOHN SAMPSON
HUSBAND OF THE ABOVE
DIED MARCH 31st 1874
AGED 83 YEARS
34. Headstone
IN MEMORY OF
THOMAS SNASHALL
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED 7th ? OF DECEMBER 1814
AGED 68 YEARS
ALSO MARY SNASHALL
WIFE OF THE ABOVE WHO DIED THE [ ]
OF APRIL 1822 AGED 76 YEARS
35. Headstone and Five Body Stones
FOREGROUND, SPONG CHILDREN
LEFT BACKGROUND, BALDOCK AND DOBSON, RIGHT, BALDOCK
NEAR THIS PLACE ARE DEPOSITED
THE REMAINS OF FOUR INFANT SONS OF
JOHN AND ROSAMOND SPONG
[DANIEL, SEPTEMBER 1776]
[THOMAS, JANUARY 1781]
[WILLIAM, MARCH 1783]
[ ]
Rear
[IN MEMORY OF]
GEORGE? SPONG
SON OF
JOHN AND ROSAMOND SPONG
[WHO DIED] NOV.179[ ]
AGED 2? DAYS
36. Two Larger Body Stones
G S W S
37. Coade Stone Pedestal , Topped by an Urn, Railed, (Under Yew Planted by W.
Farncom, 1708)
COADE STONE MONUMENT TO JOHN SPONG, DIED 1815,
AND FAMILY, BENEATH THE YEW TREE AS HE DESIRED.
AT THE TIME OF WRITING, IT IS IN NEED OF REPAIR
South Side
THIS MONUMENT
IS ERECTED
OVER THE FAMILY VAULT
BUILT BY
JOHN SPONG ESQ.
OF MILL HALL
MDCCCXIII
North Side
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
Mr JOHN SPONG
OF MILL HALL IN THIS PARISH
WHOSE REMAINS ARE DEPOSITED
BENEATH THIS MONUMENT
GREATLY RESPECTED
FOR HIS MANY VIRTUES WHEN LIVING
HE DIED MUCH LAMENTED
ON THE XXI JANUARY MDCCCXV
AGED LXIV YEARS
West Side
ALSO TO THE MEMORY OF
ROSAMOND SPONG
LATE OF MILL HALL
WHO DIED OCTOBER [ ]
MDCCC[XVI]
[AGED XL YEARS]
ALSO OF
Mr W. SPONG
LATE OF COBTREE
IN THE PARISH OF BOXLEY
WHO DIED [ NOVEMBER] [ ] MDCCCXXXIX
AGED [L] YEARS
East side
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
Mr JOHN SPONG
FORMERLY OF LONDON, SINCE TEN
YEARS RESIDENT IN BRUSSELLS
AND LATE OF AYLESFORD
WHO DIED SEPTEMBER THE 11th
MDCCCXXXIII
AGED LXIII YEARS
John Spong, died 1815, was a Coal and Grain Merchant,
Farmer and Hoy Owner, with extensive warehouses and wharfs at Mill Hall of
the west bank of the river. His long P.C.C. Will is dated 20th August
1814.
Directs a vault be made by the Yew tree in Aylesford churchyard, if
permission can be obtained (the monument states that the vault was made in
1813 ?). Wishes to be carried to his grave by 8 labouring men in his
employ, they are each to be paid 1 guinea.
To wife Rosamond, £200 and his house and adjoining cottage occupied by
Andrew Kemsley, as long as she remains his widow. She gets all furniture
and household goods for life, conditions as above. After her death or
remarriage, to son Thomas for ever.
Also to Rosamond an annuity of £400 out of his lands. £300 out of land
given to son Thomas, now living at Mill Hall and the other £100 from his
mill in Snodland.
His son John is bound by a bond dated about 20th January 1800, "under
the bond and seal of his son John", for £1,000;
his executor are to release John from money owed, for money advanced to
him. To executor £4,000 to be invested in Public Funds, the interest from
this to be paid to Letitia Spong, wife of John, late of the Bowyer of
Southwark, Hop Factor, for life, as long as she remains John Spong's
widow.
An annuity of £100 to daughter Rosamond. After the death of Letitia Spong,
the interest on the £4,000 to his executor to pay from time to time, son
John, for life. If John tries to sell or assign the bequest , then it is
void and the interest goes to his children.
After the deaths of John and Letitia, the £4,00, upon trust, to executor.
The principal sum for the benefit of John and Letitia's children at 21
years of age. If all died before 21, the £4,000 is part of his personal
estate.
To son Thomas, his freeholds and leaseholds at Mill Hall, East Malling,
Aylesford, Burham, Ditton and Sandgate in Kent, and Acton in Middlesex,
comprising the estate called the Mill Hall ? Estate and Mansion House,
stables, coach house, coke oven, cottages at the ------- ? sheds,
warehouses, grain wharf, coal wharf, the "George" public house,
stables, granary, new stables, coal sheds, wharf, crane, 3 houses occupied
by John Smitherman, John French and John Jarrit, a barn called Ash Barn,
lodge and yard and 4 more houses occupied by E[dward] Oakley, R[ichard]
Hosmer, widow Jarrit and ------------- ?, also 2½ acres of apple and
cherry orchards, leadind from Mill Hall to the London Turnpike, and a
field called Old Hith Field of 1½ acres, and land at Newhithe called
Sunmers ? And house, warehouse, wharf ferry and 3 acres of land adjoining
and 2 houses adjoining, lately occupied by W. Carpenter and W. Ralph, and
lodge, garden and all estate purchased from Mr Richard Round ?, of about
18 acres, and Willow Plot adjoining and next Baldock's Wharf, adjoining
estate purchased from Sir John Honeywood, Bart., of about 10 acres, and 2
plots near the Brook Gate, allotted by the Commissioners for dividing
Waste Lands of East Malling, all to son Thomas for ever, subject to the
annuity of £300, part of the £400 for his wife.
Also to Thomas all farming stock, goods, chattels.
To executor house and barn and 20 acres at Cowlease in Aylesford and
Burham lately occupied by Rebecca Underhill, now in his own occupation,
upon trust, for son Daniel, for life, he to keep in good repair. After
Daniel's death to executor, rents in meantime for the maintenance and
education of Daniel's children, when youngest is 21 , to be sold and
proceeds shared equally. If all die before 21 then property to son Thomas.
Daniel is released from all debts he owes his father.
Snodland Mill (paper) and cottages adjoining , drying houses, sheds, wharf
and 9 acres of land to son William, subject to annuity of £100 to his
mother, part of the £400.
To executor £1,000 to be invested in Public Funds, interest to daughter
Rosamond; after her death to her children, if any, for their maintenance
and education. If Rosamond dies intestate, the £1,00 to be part of
residue.
To daughter Mary wife of Charles Brenchley, Esq., £2,000, which
"will make up her fortune to £3,000", he having at her marriage
given her £1,000. To executor £2,000 to invest in Public Funds, interest
to daughter Martha, wife of Major William Rowan. She also to have annuity
of £100, as Rosamond. Martha to have further sum of £1,000.
To 2 children of his deceased daughter Elizabeth wife of William Bowles,
Esq., £1,000 at 21.
To John Spong son of John and Letitia £500 at 21.
His 3 pews in Aylesford church, the 1st to his house at Mill Hall, the 2nd
to Aylesford House, the servants pew to the Mill Hall house; he gives the
pews accordingly.
Residue of real and personal estate to son Thomas, who is sole executor.
Witnesses: William Knowles, George Cutbath and J. Simmons
Proved 28th January 1815
William Spong, died 1839, was a Paper Maker at Snodland. He later resided
at Cobtree Manor. He is generally accepted
to be the model for Mr Wardle in Charles Dicken's Pickwick Papers. Wardle's
Manor Farm at Dingley Dell is based on Cobtree. Opposite the Spong tomb
are the earlier Ward monuments, (the Wards are related to the Spongs, and
to the transcriber !). It seems very unlikely that this juxtaposition
escaped Dicken's keen observation; he certainly knew Aylesford churchyard,
and it is difficult to believe that the closeness of Ward and Wardle is a
mere coincidence?
Rosamond Spong, died 1816, Spinster. Her P.C.C. Will is dated 10th March
1815
Charles Bromley, Esq., of Maidstone and William Rowan, Esq., Major in H.M.
52nd Regiment are executors.
Her father John, gave £1,000 to his executor to invest, and to pay
Rosamond, for life, the interest. She has no children, so the £1,000 is
to be shared between her brothers and sisters, John, Daniel, Mary the wife
of Charles Bromley and Martha the wife of William Rowan.
Witnesses: William Scuddamore, Attorney at Law, Maidstone and J. Mosley,
his clerk.
Proved 16th November 1816
38. Headstone
IN MEMORY OF
WILLIAM STEVENS, SNR.
OF THIS PARISH
WHO DIED JAN. 16th IN THE YEAR
1779
[ AGED [ ] YEARS]
ALSO MARY DAUGHTER OF THE ABOVE
WHO DIED SEPTEMBER [ ]
AGED [ ] YEARS
39. Headstone, Close to Above
IN MEMORY OF
WILLIAM STEVENS
LATE OF MAIDSTONE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE THE [ ] OF
AUGUST 180[4] AGED 68 ? YEARS
ALSO TO THE MEMORY OF
LETITIA STEVENS
WIFE OF
-----------Ground Level----------
EDWARD STEVENS
[WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE THE [ ] OF
[NOVEMBER 1814 AGED 74 YEARS]
William Stevens, died 1804, Butcher of Maidstone.
His P.C.C. Will is dated 23rd August 1800
To wife Mary, and friends Edward Baldock and Samuel Athawes,
all his property on the north side of the High Street, in Maidstone,
occupied by ------ Peters, Cecelia Scultup, widow, George Bewley, Joseph
Waters and John Tanner, upon trust. They to sell and add proceeds to
personal estate.
To brother Edward Stevens, an annuity of £25 out of rents of
property, with stables and slaughter house, on north side of Maidstone
High Street, now or late in his occupation and of John Page, Isaac Winch
and ------- Britter, during the life of his wife, if Edward shall so long
live. After his wife's death , £15 of the annuity to come from High
Street property and £10 from property in Marden, occupied by Francis
Parker.
Two properties in Middle Row, Maidstone, in his and Mrs
Fletcher's occupation, and property including slaughter house, (as above)
and property in Marden, (as above), to his wife, Mary for life, subject to
payment of £25 annuity to Edward Stevens; she keeping property in good
repair.
To Sarah Athawes, daughter of Samuel by his wife Sarah,,
immediately after Mary's death, the two properties in Middle Row, for
ever. If she dies before 21, unmarried or without children, then shared
among her siblings.
To nephew George Birch, £200, raised by a mortgage on his
property on the north side of the High Street, within 12 months of the
death of his wife, subject to payment of annuity to Edward Stevens. The
properties to nephew Thomas Bishop and niece Ann How in equal shares, for
ever.
Wife, Mary, Edward Baldock and Samuel Athawes are executors;
to Baldock and Athawes, £50 each for their trouble.
To wife Mary, household goods, and residue of money,
securities, and personal estate.
Witnesses: A.F. Long, Jno. Roffe and William Scuddamore.
Codicil dated 17th July 1801
Revokes part of will requiring wife to keep properties in
good repair, she is not obliged to meet these costs.
Witnesses: Mary Halsnod and Jno. Roffe
Proved 10th October 1804
Edward Stevens, brother of the above, also a Butcher was buried at
Aylesford in 1826, but there is no surviving monument. Edward's wife
Letitia, appears on William's headstone.
40. Pedestals and Tall Cross
East Side
IN LOVING MEMORY OF
ISABELLA
DAUGHTER OF
GENERAL THORNDIKE R.A. AND OF
ISABELLA HIS WIFE AND BELOVED
SISTER OF THE REV. ARTHUR THORNDIKE
VICAR OF AYLESFORD
BORN 16th OCTOBER 1859 DIED 17th JULY 1909
"Gone up hither, and I will shew thee things
Which must be Hereafter" Rev. iv I
North Side
IN
BELOVED MEMORY OF
ARTHUR JOHN WEBSTER THORNDIKE
PRIEST
WHO DIED AT EVENSONG IN HIS CHURCH
S. JAMES THE LESS, WESTMINSTER
9th DECEMBER 1917
SOMETIME VICAR OF AYLESFORD AND HON. CANON
OF ROCHESTER CATHEDRAL THE DEARLY LOVED
HUSBAND OF AGNES MACDONALD THORNDIKE
"When I Wake Up, I am Present with Thee"
West Side
IN LOVING MEMORY
OF
FRANK THORNDIKE ACTOR AND AIRMAN
KILLED ON ACTIVE SERVICE IN FRANCE
WHILE FLYING ON 17th AUG. 1917
YOUNGEST SON OF CANON AND Mrs THORNDIKE
"He Paid a Soldier's Debt,
He only Lived but till he was a Man,
The which no sooner had his Prowess Confirmed,
In the Encircling Station where he Fought,
But like a Man he Died,
Why then God's Soldier be He ! "
South Side
IN
BELOVED MEMORY OF
AGNES MACDONALD THORNDIKE
DEARLY LOVED WIFE OF
ARTHUR THORNDIKE, PRIEST
WHO DIED MARCH 16th 1933
AGED 74 YEARS
"Joy Cometh in the Morning"
ROSEMARY BENVENUTA THORNDIKE
WHO DIED 15th JULY 1970 AGED 75 YEARS
The Rev. Arthur Thorndike was the father of the
celebrated actress, Dame Sybil Thorndike
41. Grey Stone Chest Tomb, East of Chancel
THOMAS VEAL, DIED 1748
STEWARD TO THE EARL OF AYLESFORD
[HERE LIETH THE] BODY OF THOMAS
[VEAL OF THIS] PARISH LATE [STEWARD]
[TO THE RT. HONOURABLE] HENEAGE,[EARL OF]
[AYLES]FORD IN WHICH SITUATION [HE DIED]
[ ] [NOVEMBER] 1748 AGED 75 YEARS
The confirmation that Thomas Veal is the man
buried under this monument, comes in Navy Board letters, dated 1738, which
are in the National Archives. Timber and Reed is being purchased for
Chatham Dockyard; in the letters Veal is identified as the Earl of
Aylesford's Steward. The Reed is not purchased from him because he was
asking too high a price!
42. Grey Coped Stone, Near Chancel Door
North Side
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
LETITIA
THE BELOVED WIFE OF SILAS WAGON
WHO DIED APRIL 2nd 1917 AGED 79 YEARS
"Thy Will be Done"
South Side
SACRED TO THE MEMORY OF
SILAS WAGON
BORN JULY 25th 1843 DIED JUNE 20th 1924
"Come unto Me"
Silas Wagon (see Interior) was a Barge Owner,
Sand, Flint and Gravel Merchant; Proprietor of the Aylesford Sand Works.
He was also Assistant Overseer for Ditton and Tax Collector for Aylesford,
Burham and Wouldham. (1913 Kelly's Directory) In the 1870's he was Manager
of the local Brick Fields, when he appears as a witness in an Old Bailey
case, concerning stolen bricks. In the 1861 Census he was a Pupil Teacher;
(his father John, see Section D, was a School Master)
43. Chest Tomb, Originally Grey Stone, Incorporating Later Brickwork
HERE LIETH THE BODY OF THOMAS
WARD
SON OF ABDI* WARD HE WAS BORN IN 1619
AND DIED IN 1688 AGED 69 YEARS
ALSO THE BODY OF JOHN WARD HIS SON
WHO WAS BORN IN 1646 AND DIED IN 1696
AGED 50 YEARS
(* Is this meant to be ABEL ?)
Thomas Ward, died 1688, Hoyman. His P.C.C. Will
is dated 24th March 1687 (1688)
To his grand-children, Thomas and Elizabeth Baldock, £20
each, Thomas at 21 and Elizabeth at 18 or day of marriage. If either or
both die the money goes to executor. To his wife Katherine £3 and best
feather bed, curtains and bolster, 6 leather chairs, 1 iron pot, 1 little
bottle, 6 pewter dishes, pair of bellows, fire pan and tongs, pair of
andirons, 6 pewter spoons, 2 wooden dishes, 1 little table, 1 chest and a
candlestick. Also to his wife, £10 annuity out of his properties and one
of the three hoys, now in his occupation. If any payment is behind, wife
can distrain property to recover money owed. Rest of his goods and
personal estate to son John, as well as properties and land. After John's
death half to grandson Thomas Ward, son of John, for ever. The other half
to grand children John and Frances Ward, for ever.
Witnesses: Robert Chambers, Jane Chambers and Richard Waller
Proved 29th June 1688.
44. Grey Stone Chest Tomb, Next to Above
WARD TOMBS, LEFT MARY, DIED 1722(3), RIGHT, THOMAS, DIED
1688 AND JOHN, DIED 1696
Ledger
(Remains of a Very Eroded Inscription , only JOHN and MARY Legible)
South Side
WITHIN THIS TOMB ARE DEPOSITED THE REMAINS OF
MARY THE WIFE OF THOMAS WARD LATE OF MILL HALL
IN THIS PARISH [AND RICHARD & THOMAS] HIS SONS WHO ALL THREE
DIED OF THE SMALL POX AT THE SAME TIME
IN FEBRUARY 1722
(See Interior for other Wards)
WARD see GOODMAN
45. Headstone, Front Very Eroded
SACRED
TO THE MEMORY OF
S[ALLY] WIFE OF THOMAS W[ILLSON]
BAKER OF MAIDSTONE
WHO DEPARTED THIS LIFE [MAY] [ ] [1819]
AGED [30] YEARS
LEFT ISSUE ONE SON [& ONE ?] DAUGHTER
[ EARLEY AND ELIZABETH ] ]
[Eroded Verses]
ALSO [THE HUSBAND OF THE ABOVE ]
THOMAS WILLSON [WHO DIED]
[ ] [MARCH ?] 1839 AGED [50] YEARS
Rear
ALSO
THE REV. JOSEPH WILLSON
WHOSE LIFE WAS TAKEN BY KAFFIRS
AT SOUTH AFRICA WHERE HE HAD
BEEN TEN YEARS A DEVOTED MISSIONARY
ON THE 28th FEBY. 1838
AGED 40 YEARS
"He Rests from his Labours"
ALSO THE AFORESAID
EARLY WILLSON
WHO DIED JANY. 24Th 1863
AGED 50 YEARS
[ ]
ALSO NEAR THIS SPOT
ELIZABETH WILLSON
SISTER OF THE ABOVE WHO DIED [JANUA]RY [ ]
1880 AGED 65 YEARS
46. Triple Headed Headstone, Extremely Eroded in Parts
